Opposition support, the last resort to fighting crime

National Security Minister Martin Joseph yesterday called for the opposition’s support of the three part Police Reform Bill. Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry of National Security headquarters, Joseph called on the United National Congress (UNC) to support the Government’s fight against crime since that was the only way for the fight  to be successful. He emphasised that crime was not a political party issue, but a national issue.

“If we parliamentarians fail to make this essential distinction, TT will suffer,” he said. “no parliamentarian can afford to have this outcome on his or her conscience; I certainly do not intend to have that on mine.” He expressed that the Government had responded, and had made a commitment to “fighting crime at all levels” but it was now left up to the Opposition to back the Anti-Crime Legislation. The bill, he explained, is meant to give more authority for the police to manage their resources and affairs. “It is clear that reform of the legislative framework is the missing link which, together with our other initiatives, can effectively impact the crime scourge.” Joseph expressed confidence in the UNC to support the bill, but refused to divulge any contingency plan if the opposition parliamentarians did not support it. In order for the reform bill to be passed a two-thirds majority is needed.